It has been nearly 12 years since I have heard from my father. What is interesting about my situation is that I was adopted. This man that once called me his daughter stood up in court under oath and said he wanted me and then he did it again five and half years later with my little brother. Everyday I move forward and think. . . “If he could only see me now!”
He should have known I would go into something like public health. As a young girl I would throw tantrums when my father would not put on his seatbelt, I told him I was going to call the police on him or I wouldn’t get into the car until he did. I also would yell and scream and beg him to QUIT SMOKING because I knew the health consequences. I also remember catching him smoking outside after he told me he had quit, I remember my heart sinking more than anything.
I have this new idea and it is called “Support a Brotha or Brother” (whichever fits 
I think it is all too often that we are quick to tear men down and to blame them for everything. Be Bold and tell the men in your life how they have made a difference!
So, to all of the men in my life, or have been in my life or are yet to be in my life THANK YOU for your support and your love. Below is only some of the faces of the many men that have made a difference in my life.
I also need ya’ll to support yourselves! Men tend to be higher risk takers in some general areas than women and tend to wear their seatbelts less, go to the Dr. less, get early screenings less. There is not a day that goes by that I don’t holler at someone ON FOOT to “put on your seatbelt” or “wear a helmet!” or “make sure and get your child vaccinated!” My work is never done in DC. . . So please men we need and want you around!
Please check out the CDC for some Men Health Tips! These were a few of my favorites!
Work safely.
Daily, an estimated 11,500 private-sector workers have a nonfatal work-related injury or illness, and as a result, more than half require a job transfer, work restrictions, or time away from their jobs.
I should also mention that my dad used to refuse to wear earplugs on the job because they weren’t “cool” but he was so hard of hearing by the time he was about 40. . . guess they WERE COOL weren’t they!
Get check-ups.
Some men say, “I feel fine.” To them that means they must be healthy and don’t need to get a check up. Unfortunately, there are certain diseases or conditions that may not have symptoms. See your doctor or nurse for regular check-ups, and go more often if needed.
Pay attention to signs and symptoms.
Discharge. Excessive thirst. Rash or sore. Problems with urination. Shortness of breath. These are only a few of the symptoms that males should pay attention to and see a doctor about if they occur. It could be a symptom for a sexually transmitted disease, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, or other conditions or diseases.
PLEASE CHECK your testicles! I have had two friends in their EARLY twenties diagnosed with testicular cancer. For more information about how you can perform a monthly self examination of your testicles click here.(it is also in Spanish)
Get enough sleep.
Insufficient sleep is associated with a number of chronic diseases and conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and depression. Moreover, insufficient sleep is responsible for motor vehicle and machinery-related accidents, causing substantial injury and disability each year. In short, drowsy driving can be as dangerous – and preventable – as driving while intoxicated. Adults should get 7-9 hours of sleep per night according to the National Sleep Foundation.
“Drowsy driving is like drunk driving!”
Gear up.
When playing active sports or riding a motorcycle or bike, make sure you and your family wear protective gear, such as helmets, wrist guards, and knee and elbow pads. Wear seat belts as a driver and a passenger.
My poor child will be wearing gear from head to toe. . . Steve Urkel will be a thing of the past! I do appreciate that my fellow blogger Mr. Walker Sports agrees with me on this one- I mean the man plays Rugby. . . yeesh and ouch!
Be smoke-free.
Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke. Inhaling other people’s smoke causes health problems similar to those of smokers. Quitting smoking has immediate and long-term benefits. Within 20 minutes after smoking that last cigarette, your body begins a series of changes that continue for years.
Smoking around your children will increase THEIR risk of asthma. Think about the choice YOU are making for SOMEONE ELSE. I know the people in my building do not think about that every time they light up.
Please also visit DC Tobacco Free Families to find out how you can Quit For FREE if you are DC Resident
http://www.dctff.info/help-quitting/quitline/
Keep boys healthy.
Healthy boys become healthy men.
Teach adolescent girls and boys to “choose respect.” Help young people learn the skills to form positive, healthy relationships and prevent abusive relationships.
Check out an amazing LOCAL DC Non-Profit Teaching DC Young Men how to Respect Women
Men Can Stop Rape
Men Can Stop Rape mobilizes male youth to prevent men’s violence against women. We build young men’s capacity to challenge harmful aspects of traditional masculinity, to value alternative visions of male strength, and to embrace their vital role as allies with women and girls in fostering healthy relationships and gender equity.
Thank you to the men that are creating peace and justice in our communities! You know who you are!
From NWtoSE the men of DC and beyond are doin‘ it right! Thank you again!
